Skating is back in Old Market Square!
RINK CLOSURE FORCES CHAMPION TO SWAP ICE FOR SLABS DURING PRACTICE SESSIONS
A GOLD medal-winning ice skater with dreams of competing in the Olympics has taken to practising on rollerblades in Old Market Square while Nottingham’s National Ice Centre is closed for the lockdown.
Phongsakon Hanyu Wongplang, who is studying performing arts at Nottingham College, has been spotted on several occasions spending his daily exercise time skating in the Square, attracting a following on Instagram and Tiktok in the process.
He said: “It is a smooth and big space away from people. I got very nervous with people walking by, and self-conscious. But I was there to practise what I had to do and I started to enjoy showing what I can do both with wheels and on the ice.
“People recognised straight away I am an ice skater so they sat and watched. I like to inspire people.”
Originally from Thailand, 25-yearold Phongsakon moved to Nottingham 13 years ago, drawn by what he says is a “vibrant adult skating community”.
He first came to the city in 2006, following his parents who are both
People recognised straight away I am an ice skater so they sat and watched. I like to inspire people Phongsakon Hanyu Wongplang
chefs and currently run that Chai Yo Thai restaurant on Parliament Terrace, off Upper Parliament Street.
When the pandemic hit and lockdowns were introduced, Wongplang found himself unable to train at the National Ice Centre.
Still needing to practise his skating moves, which he says are “integral” to his performing arts degree, Phongsakon was forced to be creative and, with a pair of rollerblades, found open spaces around the city.
“I am not a professional yet but I am aspiring to be one,” said Wongplang.
“I am still learning working on the Olympic levels of skating techniques of jumps and spins, foot works sequences, artistry and choreography.
“There are many levels, tests and lessons required to get to the top of the game.”
Phongsakon competed in the Adult British Championship in 2019, winning a gold medal, and was scheduled to take part in last year’s event before the championships were called off due to Covid-19.